ROGER S. BENOIT

Roger Jedidiah Shaw Benoit, 87, passed away on Saturday, August 27, 2011, under the loving care of his family and staff at Knollwood Nursing Center. Roger was born in Worcester, on August 14, 1924 to Edward and Mildred (Shaw) Benoit. He spent his childhood in Worcester, and later lived during adulthood in Holden and West Boylston. After graduating from Worcester Academy in 1943, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, attended Worcester Boys Trade School, and then graduated from Worcester Junior College in 1956 with an A.E. degree in Industrial Engineering. His latest employment was at George Meyer Manufacturing Co. and Riley Stoker Co.; then as a courier for Fallon Clinic.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, his twin sisters Erma and Gertrude, his brother Myron, his nephew Paul, and his loving wife of 50 years Phyllis (Hertzberg). He is survived and will be greatly missed by his daughters Linda Rayworth and husband Douglas of West Boylston, MA; Nancy Morin and husband John of Newport News, VA; and by his son Douglas Benoit and wife Laurel of Chelmsford, MA; as well as his grandchildren Sara, Janna, Kayla, and Erica Rayworth; Amanda Morin; and Dustin and Matthew Benoit; his beloved canine companion “Stormin’ Norman” and several nieces and nephews.

Roger enjoyed singing and harmonizing with the Eight Bells. He was a former member of All Saints Episcopal Church in Worcester and sang in its choir for many years. He later joined St. John’s Episcopal Church in Worcester and sang in the choir there as well. Currently, he is a member of St. Francis Episcopal Church in Holden.

Through the years, Roger enjoyed watching the Red Sox, camping, walking, and spending time with his grandchildren. After retirement, he enjoyed spending summers with Phyllis and family at Yankeeland Campground in Kennebunk, ME. Roger had a sweet way of making those around him feel loved and appreciated. He had a good sense of humor and kept us laughing and smiling while reciting his favorite jingles.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a calling hour from 9-10 a.m. on Thursday, September 1, at St. Francis Episcopal Church, 70 Highland St., Holden, MA, followed by a funeral service at 10:00 a.m. in the same location. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Francis Episcopal Church, 70 Highland St., Holden, MA 01520 or Summit ElderCare, 277 East Mountain St., Worcester, MA 01606.